Discover the Rich History at York Castle Museum
Explore York Castle Museum: A Journey Through Time in the Heart of York, Showcasing the City's Rich History and Culture.
Immerse yourself in the captivating history of York at the York Castle Museum, where unique exhibits bring the past to life. Explore various historical displays, including the fascinating Victorian street and the intriguing history of the city's castle. Perfect for all ages, this museum offers an enriching experience that showcases the essence of York's heritage.
A brief summary to York Castle Museum
- Tower St, York, YO1 9RY, GB
- +441904687687
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours to enrich your experience.
- Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and fully enjoy the exhibits.
- Don't miss the museum shop for unique souvenirs related to York's history.
- Allocate at least two to three hours for a complete visit to explore all the exhibits.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from York Minster, head southwest on Minster Yard towards the street called Duncombe Place. Continue straight onto Ogleforth, which becomes Goodramgate. Follow Goodramgate as it turns into St. Sampson's Square. From there, turn right onto Coney Street, and continue until you reach the bridge at the end of the street. Cross the bridge and follow the signs toward the Castle Museum, which is on Tower Street just a short walk ahead.
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Walking
If you are near the York Railway Station, exit the station and head towards the main road (Station Road). Turn left and walk along the road until you reach the traffic lights at the junction with Leeman Road. Cross the road and continue along the riverbank on the left side. Follow the path along the river until you see the Castle Museum on your right at Tower Street.
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Walking
From the Shambles, a famous street in York, walk towards the end of the street and turn right onto Pavement. Continue straight until you reach St. Sampson's Square. Turn left onto Coney Street, then follow it to the end where you will find the bridge. Cross over and then follow the path to Tower Street. The York Castle Museum will be directly ahead.
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Public Transport
If you are near the York Railway Station, you can take a bus to the Castle Museum. Catch the 'York City Sightseeing' bus which has a stop near the station. Get off at the 'Tower Street' stop, which is just a short walk from the museum entrance. Follow the signs to Tower Street, and you will find the museum right there.
Discover more about York Castle Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ouse Bridge
0.4 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
St Crux
0.4 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
The Stonebow
0.4 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
Walmgate Bar
0.5 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.5 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.5 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.6 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
St Lawrence Parish Church, York
0.6 km
Explore the historical St Lawrence Parish Church in York, showcasing stunning architecture and a vibrant community spirit.
Holy Trinity Church, Goodramgate
0.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Holy Trinity Church in York, a captivating Anglican landmark and must-visit tourist attraction.
St Anthonys Garden
0.7 km
Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
York Mansion House
0.7 km
Explore York Mansion House, a Georgian gem in the heart of York, showcasing the rich history and elegant lifestyle of the 18th century.
The Deathly Dark Tours
0.7 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
Barley Hall
0.7 km
Discover the rich history of York at Barley Hall, a beautifully restored medieval townhouse showcasing life in the 15th century.
Bedern Hall
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clifford's Tower, York
0.1 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.1 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Dick Turpins grave
0.2 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
Tower Gardens
0.2 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
York Army Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.2 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
Fairfax House
0.2 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
St Denys's Church, York
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of St Denys's Church, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of York, England.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Fishergate Bar
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
0.3 km
Historic Victorian Gothic Revival bridge over the River Ouse, blending York’s past with scenic riverside charm and modern social spaces.
St Mary's Church
0.3 km
Discover York’s ancient St Mary's Church—where medieval history meets contemporary art in a stunning Castlegate landmark.
Merchant Adventurers' Hall
0.3 km
Step into York’s medieval past at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, a stunning timber-framed guildhall alive with history, commerce, and community spirit.
Ghost keeper - Meeting point
0.3 km
Explore York’s haunted streets with the Ghost Keeper tour—a thrilling blend of history, spooky tales, and theatrical storytelling.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.3 km
Step into Viking-age York at JORVIK Viking Centre, where history comes alive through immersive rides, artefacts, and interactive experiences.
Essential places to dine
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
The Olive Tree
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
Rustique Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
0.2 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Tabanco By Ambiente
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
The Blue Barbakan
0.3 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
Corner Grill House
0.3 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Pavement Vaults
0.4 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Cosy Club
0.4 km
Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Ate O'Clock
0.4 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Wine Stories
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
Valhalla York
0.5 km
Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.6 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fenwick York
0.2 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Expressions
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Give The Dog A Bone
0.4 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
York Souvenir's
0.4 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Gift Gallery
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Greybear
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
0.5 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
0.5 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
0.5 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.6 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Cello by Collectables
0.6 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
The Medieval Scribe
0.6 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.2 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Plonkers
0.3 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
The Three Tuns
0.3 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.3 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
The Fossgate Social
0.3 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Social 8 Lounge
0.4 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Hop York
0.4 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Golden Fleece York
0.4 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Blue Bell
0.4 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.4 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Tank & Paddle York
0.5 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Jalou York
0.5 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Pivní York
0.5 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.6 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Vudu Lounge
0.6 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.3 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
BlueBox
0.6 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Popworld York
0.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.7 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.7 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Flares - York
0.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
0.8 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.2 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.0 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.6 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.8 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.0 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
35.0 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
